It's official: You can now take photos during White House tours

The decades-old ban on taking photographs inside the White House during public tours is being lifted today, first lady Michelle Obama announced on Instagram.

The White House, in a statement, said guests are welcome to take photos throughout the White House tour route and encouraged visitors to share their experiences using the hashtag #WhiteHouseTour.

What's permitted: Phones and compact still cameras with a lens no longer than 3 inches.

What's not: Video cameras, including any action camcorders, cameras with detachable lenses, tablets, tripods, monopods, and camera sticks (selfie sticks); flash photography and livestreaming.

The ban has been in place for more than 40 years. Copyright 2019 NPR. To see more, visit https://www.npr.org.

Create a More Connected Minnesota

MPR News is your trusted resource for the news you need. With your support, MPR News brings accessible, courageous journalism and authentic conversation to everyone - free of paywalls and barriers. Your gift makes a difference.